Starting the journey, week one complete

Starting the journey

On April 10,2017, I started my journey on the approach trail to the AT. It began with several hundred stairs to ascend to the top of the waterfall. I took my time by setting small achievable goals, like the top of the set of stairs in front of me, then the next. Then the journey begins in he woods. Somewhere along the path, while hiking solo, I got turned around heading back towards Amicolola instead of towards Springer Mountain. Very frustrating, but I recovered and got back on track. Night time was approaching and I was fortunate to stumble upon a group of Boy Scouts that allowed me to pitch my tent with them for the evening.

That was the beginning of a series of lessons and tests that I faced during that dirst week. To understand your abilities and limitations, to figure out what are the necessities on the trail, and to set your mind up to always move forward, even if that is just one step at a time. I learned that I packed too much stuff. I accepted that fact and continued, knowing that later in the week I might have an opportunity to lighten my pack by either mailing things home, putting them in a hiker box, or he owing the stuff away.

It takes time to adjust

My body is taking time to adjust to the trail. My feet, knees, and stamina need time to adapt to carrying the pack load through the various elevation changes. I’ve learned to rely very heavily on my trekking poles to assist in navigating the terrain, while aiding my body I need hiking. That is where your determination must step in. At first there were frequent times when I would pause to catch my breath. I made it a point to look around and appreciate the natural beauty, like the blooming wild flowers.

You are in control

You are in total control of how you deal with living and hiking on the trail. From the water you drink, the food you eat, and your ability to deal with the elements to have a learning and pleasurable experience along the way.

The shear pleasure of gathering your water supply directly from the streams, like the one pictured below, is amazing. My first use of my water filter system (Sawyer Sqeeze) produced some of the best tasting water I have ever had.

Persistence pays

I was able to lighten my load to a manageable 35lbs by reaching out to Hiker Hostel for assistance when I reached Woody Gap. The Hiker Hostel sent a shuttle to pick me up, take me to the Hostel, and offered a mailing service as well. After a nice sleep, and a hearty breakfast they drove me back to Woody Gap to resume my travels the next day.

It is important to walk your own hike and enjoy all of the sights, sounds, and people along the way. I’m taking the time to listen to my body, and to be attentive to its needs. 😉

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Hi. My name is Tom and I'm planning on completing a North Bound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2017 along with one of my sons. I'm recently retired from my job as a technical manager. This adventure offers an opportunity of a lifetime, as I seek to discover the focus for my encore career.
I'm happily married to my wife of 38 years and we have three grown children, and four young grand children. I love all kinds of music, singing, playing guitar, country line dancing, and square dancing.

Comments13

Phil Legare : Apr 20th

Tom,

Thanks for posting !! Your journey is truly inspiring !! Thank you for sharing and be safe out there on the trail !!

You keep those feet moving young man. We came home today from 3 days and 2 nights from Washington Monument park to Pen Mar park. 24 miles with 7 kids and did great. I was lagging on the inclines but like you I kept my eyes on the goal. Set and reach those goals. It feels great!